Another incredible day in the Sacred Valley! Today, we ventured to three stunning sites that showcased the ingenuity of the Incas.

We began with the salt mines of Maras, an otherworldly landscape of thousands of salt pools glistening in the sun. The sight was mesmerizing, and learning about the traditional salt-harvesting process added a new layer of appreciation.

Next, we explored the circular terraces of Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with different crops and microclimates. The precision and foresight of their engineering amazed us!

After a delicious lunch, we visited Chinchero, a picturesque Andean village with a rich history. Here, we saw the fusion of Incan and Spanish architecture and watched a demonstration of traditional textile weaving—a beautiful craft still alive today.

Exhausted but exhilarated, we arrived in Cusco, where we checked into the Sonesta Cusco Hotel, ready for more adventures tomorrow.

Saltlake and views

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that seamlessly blends history and modern charm. Today, we set out to explore its incredible archaeological sites.

Our morning was spent visiting Sacsayhuaman, an imposing fortress with massive stone walls, offering stunning views of the city below. We also explored Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and Kenko, each site revealing more about Incan architecture and spiritual beliefs.

In the afternoon, we wandered through Cusco’s charming streets, visiting the iconic Koricancha, the former Temple of the Sun, and the grand Cathedral. We ended our day in the artsy neighborhood of San Blas, filled with artisan shops and bohemian vibes.

To top off this perfect day, we enjoyed a spectacular dinner and cultural show at Tunupa Restaurant. The delicious flavors of Peruvian cuisine, combined with traditional music and dance, made for an unforgettable evening.